C. difficile infection requires documenting the presence of toxin in the stools, usually by testing for the gene that produces toxin B, using a method called PCR. It is very sensitive, so it should not be used to test solid stools since that is likely a carrier state.
Definition of vassal. 1  1 : a person under the protection of a feudal lord to whom he has vowed homage and fealty : a feudal tenant. 2  2 : one in a subservient or subordinate position.
Lord and vassal: 8th - 12th century. The feudal system comes into focus during the 8th century, when the Carolingian dynasty is expanding its territory. Charles Martel grants his nobles rights over tracts of land, to yield the income with which they can provide fighting men for his army.